World No Tobacco Day, observed annually on May 31st, serves as a global initiative to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption and advocate for effective policies to reduce tobacco use. In 2025, the focus intensifies on the escalating tobacco use among youth, particularly in regions like Jammu and Kashmir, where recent studies indicate a disturbing trend of increasing tobacco consumption among adolescents.
Recent research underscores a significant rise in tobacco use among the youth in Kashmir. A study conducted by the Department of Community Medicine at Government Medical College Srinagar revealed that approximately 23% of school-going adolescents in Srinagar are smokers with 29% having experimented with tobacco.
Furthermore, the prevalence of tobacco use varies across districts: Kupwara – 56.6%, Shopian – 52%, Anantnag – 49.9%, Budgam – 48.8%, Pulwama – 44%, Ganderbal – 42%, Baramulla and Kulgam – 41% and Srinagar – 38%. These figures highlight a pressing public health concern, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions.
Several factors contribute to the rising tobacco use among Kashmiri youth, Peer Influence and Social Exposure: Over 60% of students became addicted after coming in contact with smokers in public places, while some tried to imitate film stars. Parental Influence: Adolescents with parents who smoke are more likely to adopt the habit themselves. Media and Cultural Norms: The portrayal of smoking in movies and media normalizes the behaviour, making it more appealing to impressionable youth. Accessibility: Despite legal prohibitions, tobacco sales near schools remain rampant, making it easier for students to procure tobacco products. Economic Factors: Some adolescents spend over Rs 1,000 monthly on tobacco products, often funded by their parents, highlighting both accessibility and economic implications.
The early initiation of tobacco use has severe health consequences: Respiratory issues increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with J&K having an alarmingly high chronic obstructive pulmonary disease prevalence of 16-18%, compared to the national average of 5-7%. Cardiovascular diseases elevated risk of heart diseases due to prolonged tobacco use. Cancer higher susceptibility to various forms of cancer, including lung and oral cancers. Mental health Tobacco use is linked to increased anxiety, depression and other mental health disorders.
The economic burden of tobacco use in Jammu and Kashmir is substantial: Healthcare costs increased expenditure on treating tobacco-related illnesses strains the healthcare system. Household expenditure families spend significant portions of their income on tobacco products, diverting funds from essential needs. Productivity Loss health issues related to tobacco use lead to decreased productivity and increased absenteeism.
Efforts have been made to curb tobacco use among youth: Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign a two-month-long campaign launched by the Union Health Ministry aimed to combat the alarming rise of tobacco use among young people through educational initiatives and public service announcements. Legal prohibitions ban on selling tobacco products within 100 meters of schools and the sale of loose cigarettes have been implemented. However, enforcement remains weak. Awareness programs various NGOs and health organizations conduct awareness programs in schools and communities. Despite these measures, the prevalence of tobacco use among youth remains high, indicating the need for more robust and effective strategies.
Strengthen Enforcement: Ensure strict implementation of existing laws prohibiting the sale of tobacco near educational institutions.
Educational Initiatives: Integrate comprehensive tobacco education into school curricula, emphasizing the health risks and social consequences.
Parental Involvement: Encourage parents to discuss the dangers of tobacco use with their children and model non-smoking behaviour.
Media Campaigns: Launch targeted media campaigns that counteract the glamorization of smoking in popular culture.
Support Services: Provide accessible cessation programs and counselling services for youth attempting to quit tobacco use.
Community Engagement: Involve community leaders and religious figures in spreading anti-tobacco messages to reinforce cultural and social norms against tobacco use.
The rising trend of tobacco use among Kashmiri youth is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. On this World No Tobacco Day, it is imperative for policymakers, educators, parents and community leaders to unite in their efforts to protect the health and future of the younger generation. Through strengthened enforcement, education and community engagement, we can work towards a tobacco-free future for Kashmir.
